Jiri was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia on September 2, 1936. From the day he was born he was fascinated with how things worked, taking apart and building all the mechanical items in his home, much to his mother's chagrin. He completed his graduate studies in mechanical engineering at Czech Technical Institute of Prague in 1962 and worked his entire life in the field of mechanical engineering, work that was as much a hobby as his livelihood. He met Eva at a university dance in 1958 and they married in 1960. Together they shared many memories over a span of 56 years.

Jiri was a dedicated and loving father to his two daughters, Petra, born in 1961 and Pavla, born five years later. He was known for his grueling science and mathematics tutoring lessons to both girls, but was always patient and kind. He gave of himself whenever asked to do so and gave freely his time to anyone who was willing to learn.

He was also grandfather to four grandsons, Calvin, Brandon, Kalen and Aiden who brought him immense joy and pride.

Jiri retired in 2001 from Ontario Power Generation, where he worked for 20 years. His life journey took him across three continents, including his beloved South Africa, ending in Canada in 1981, where he lived with his wife Eva until his death on June 20, 2016.

Jiri was a great animal lover and will be reunited with many of his beloved cats who have been waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge. It is because of Jiri's soft spot for cats and dogs that we ask that in lieu of flowers, should you wish, you make a donation to the Toronto Humane Society (see link below).